This year's ANZAC Day saw hundreds turn out to remember the efforts of Australia and New Zealand's great service men and women. Veterans, schools, clubs and businesses poured into the streets to march in grand parades, and packed in close to attend services held across the Hinchinbrook Shire. Beautiful wreaths were lain and the bugles mournful tones echoed across respectful silences as flags were lowered to half mast. A gunfire breakfast, coffee and traditional ANZAC biscuits kept everyone going
Read the full storyAllan Colquhoun grew up in Sydney, but his life has taken him far beyond the city limits. In his youth, he worked with a station owner named Bob, whose property combined dairy and sheep farming with a focus on Jersey bulls and cows. One vivid memory that’s stayed with him is of Bob chasing down a bull meant for butchering on his stock horse —a beast that, to Allan’s amazement, climbed over the holding fence one hoof at a time to escape. Allan spent most of his working life as a coastal travelle
Read the full storyHinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism held their monthly Coffee Connect last week, being hosted by local business Wild Local. There was a very strong attendance at this event, with Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter and KAP Senate candidate, Robbie Lyon. Rebecca and Dom Zaghini provided a delicious light snacks and gave the audience an overview of their business journey from inception to their current location, the diverse range of products they provide and some insight into t
Read the full storyOver the weekend, the Ingham Kennel Club hosted six rounds of dog shows, featuring judges from across Australia who rotated to ensure fair and balanced competition. Dogs were entered into one of seven group categories, with the Toy Group attracting the largest number of entries. Sunday's shows saw the Italian Greyhound emerge as a standout, making up 20 of the 170 total entries across the weekend. Unique and rarely seen breeds like the Xoloitzcuintli and Briard added excitement to the event, of
Read the full storyHinchinbrook, with Christmas just around the corner I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the good things that we all have in our lives. I believe Christmas is a time to come together and celebrate the blessings of family, friendship and neighbours. It’s the season for us all to share in the joy, kindness, and generosity that makes this time of year so special.
As we exchange gifts and enjoy the festivities, I think it’s only right to remember the true spirit of Christmas by extending a helping hand to those who may be doing it tough. A simple act of kindness can make the world of difference to someone who finds this time of year lonely or challenging.
For those who follow the Christian faith, this time of year we must remember to keep Jesus in our hearts, while also being respectful of alternative religions and faiths others choose to follow.
Thank you to those who will be working through the holiday season — those working in the hospitality and service industries, our emergency services, police and of course our health workforce. Your keep the lights on when we need it most, and for that we are all grateful.
Without a doubt, Christmas is the busiest time of year on our roads, and although it can be frustrating dealing with traffic, I always say it’s better to arrive in one piece than not at all. If travelling over the next couple of weeks, I urge everyone to exercise caution to ensure you and your loved ones make it there and home alive. My New Year’s wish is for a safe and happy holiday season for all.
Like most government departments and small businesses, our office will be shutting for a short break. The Hinchinbrook Electorate Office will be closed from Monday, 23 December 2024 to Friday, 3 January 2025 (inclusive). I think our amazing electorate staff deserve a moment to recharge in preparation for the year ahead.
Personally, I’m ready for a bit of time off but am already anticipating my return in the New Year. I look forward to seeing everyone out and about in Hinchinbrook in 2025. From my family to yours, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.
Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP, Member for Hinchinbrook